Exclusive interview about controversial Black Panther march

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — It’s a controversial topic many people across the Cape Fear are talking about. Sparked by the revolutionary Black Panther Party announcing they are planning an armed march in Wilmington this weekend.

WWAY sat down with a local member who says their purpose is peace.

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“I just don’t understand where people get the idea that we’re a hate group just because our mission statement is for the people that are being hurt the most and have been hurt the most,” said Oluwale Folami, a member of the local chapter of the Black Panthers.

He also says they are gearing up for a march in Wilmington Sunday “to get justice for injustices that are happening to black African people all around the world.”

“It’s not a race thin. It’s love,” Davis said. “From the family. Family love. In the same way you would love yours, we love ours. We’re no different. Just skin color.”

They say they are marching in Smith’s honor among others who have died.

WWAY reached out to the national leader of the Black Panthers, and he said they are meeting with their attorneys in the morning to discuss their options. They are expecting a few dozen people to attend Sunday’s event.